How Do Funeral Homes Prepare for (or Handle) Emergencies Such as Natural Disasters?

Due to the vast extent to which funeral homes serve communities, they must have emergency response plans and procedures for various scenarios, including natural disasters. OSHA requires all funeral homes to have emergency action plans. These plans outline the necessary steps to maintain services, preserve human remains, and provide safety for clients and staff. 

A core component of emergency preparedness among funeral homes involves securing resources and establishing backup systems. Since natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes can cause power outages, most funeral homes need generators to maintain refrigeration units and other important equipment. If their facilities are completely compromised, some funeral homes partner with other service providers to maintain continuity of care for their clients. They may also utilize temporary mortuary structures or mobile mortuary units to maintain storage and care. Additionally, they typically maintain an inventory of enough supplies to last for a few months at minimum to ensure that they have enough resources to care for people who have died.

Since natural disasters can contribute to an increase in the death rate, funeral homes must also be prepared to address deaths as quickly as possible. They must maintain protocols and procedures that can be rapidly scaled to match the demand. In these circumstances, communication is essential since they need to coordinate with local authorities and emergency services and keep families updated regarding the potential wait time associated with requested services and arrangements. 

Emergency preparedness is ultimately a vital aspect to maintaining funeral home operations. Planning ahead, acquiring enough resources to last for extended lengths of time, forming partnerships with other service providers, and having alternative spaces available to continue work are essential in maintaining timely and dignified death care services in an emergency. Although preparation is often extensive, it ensures that loved ones continue to be handled with care and respect and provides consistent support to families during vulnerable and uncertain times. 

Sources 

“Be prepared. Be ready. Disaster planning and emergency management.” Cremation Association of North America.   https://www.cremationassociation.org/blog/be-prepared-be-ready-disaster-planning-and-emergency-management 

“Funeral home emergency action plans.” National Funeral Directors Association. https://nfda.org/resources/operations-management/disaster-planning/funeral-home-emergency-action-plans 

“Mortuary operations following mass fatality natural disasters: a review.” Springer Link. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12024-016-9836-3